The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), in collaboration with Vietnam Airlines and partners, signed an MOU to launch new direct flights between Ho Chi Minh City and Phuket starting 2 July 2026, aiming to boost Vietnamese tourist numbers beyond one million annually amid rising travel trends.
According to a reporter, three Thai tourism agencies—Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaiboon, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT); Ms. Paweena Jariyathitipong, CEO of Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT); and Mr. Poompipat Meesamran, Vice President of the Thai Travel Agents Association (TTAA)—jointly signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Mr. Le Hong Ha, CEO of Vietnam Airlines, to promote tourism cooperation between the two countries.
This initiative focuses on expanding air travel networks and tourist numbers by increasing direct flights between key cities in Thailand and Vietnam, along with joint marketing efforts. TAT stated it will push for the establishment of a joint tourism working group to ensure the agreement yields concrete results.
The TAT Governor stated that this strategic cooperation will build on Thailand’s strengths in international air connectivity and tourism products, with the highlight being the new direct flight connecting Ho Chi Minh City to Phuket province, starting service on 2 July 2026 with four flights per week.
TAT data shows that Thailand currently receives an average of 750,000 to 900,000 Vietnamese tourists annually. Through this collaboration with Vietnam Airlines, TAT aims to increase the Vietnamese tourist base to one million per year to boost revenue and strengthen long-term relations between the two countries.
Tourism statistics indicate that from 1 January to 25 May 2026, over 219,986 Vietnamese tourists have visited Thailand, supported by the summer school break travel season (May–July), which encourages family travel.
Additionally, Thailand’s diverse tourism attractions—such as international concerts, events, and festivals—remain strong draws for younger tourists. Meanwhile, Vietnamese tourism operators have adjusted strategies in partnership with airlines to develop cost-effective charter tour packages, enhancing Thailand’s ability to attract high-quality, high-spending tourists during this season.
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